Her Story
About Karen
Karen Eliason is a senior environmental consultant and industrial hygienist with more than 21 years of experience helping organizations manage environmental compliance, workplace safety, and industrial hygiene challenges. As a Project Specialist with Higgins & Associates, LLC, she leads a diverse portfolio of projects that includes Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, containment design, spill prevention planning, indoor air quality assessments, asbestos and lead inspections, water intrusion investigations, and industrial hygiene monitoring. Having worked on projects in nearly every state across the country, Karen is recognized for her technical expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to protecting both people and the environment.
Karen earned a Bachelor of Science in Earth System Science and Policy, with a strong foundation in environmental science and mathematics, from California State University, Monterey Bay, followed by a Master of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Michigan–Dearborn. Throughout her career, she has contributed to a wide range of complex projects, including emergency response efforts for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, refinery turnarounds, Superfund site remediation, hospital containment design, and environmental assessments for commercial, industrial, and government clients. She is a qualified Environmental Professional for Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, holds a 40-hour HAZWOPER certification, and is a licensed lead and asbestos inspector. She is also an active member of professional organizations including APIC, CAHED, and ACGIH.
Karen's career has been shaped by a strong commitment to integrity, continuous learning, and service. Inspired by the work ethic and encouragement of her father, she believes that honest reporting, accountability, and learning from mistakes are essential to long-term success in environmental consulting. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she is dedicated to giving back through volunteer work with the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation and Ability Connections, supporting causes that improve lives and strengthen communities. She is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of environmental professionals, encouraging young women entering the field to seek diverse internship experiences, embrace challenging opportunities, prioritize safety, and remain lifelong learners.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karen
01What do you attribute your success to?
My dad motivated me to pursue my background in science and math. He was always there, ready to help me with any questions. In addition, I am part of X-files generation with strong women in science and leadership.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be open to new ideas and opportunities. Never feel bad about asking questions.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If you're in school, take as many internships as you can to see if you really want to do something like this. Try different internships because you may not like what you do. Getting into this field definitely be open to working long days, being in the heat, figuring out what you need to do, just pursue, keep going, keep educating yourself on stuff. As a woman, watch your surroundings but respect your environment.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges would be the current administration stopping us from doing our job by changing regulations. But the good thing is the ever helping technology and people realizing that the environment is important. It's a growing field with plenty of opportunity, needing more infection preventionists and industrial hygienists.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is key. Find a good group of peoplec who have your back. Don't fudge your numbers and lie about it. If you make a mistake, own up to it and we'll fix it. We learn from our mistakes.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.